Unique Itinerary: Post New Year's Getaway

 Norwegian Sun, shown here in Vancouver, BC.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Every year, many cruisers flock to the holiday cruises; voyages over Christmas and New Year's are immensely popular and not only do they usually sell out, but they do so at some of the highest price points of the entire year.

Because of this, many savvy cruisers choose to postpone their winter getaway, opting to cruise instead in the 'low season' months of January and February.  And if you can make it work, Norwegian Cruise Line has a great little Caribbean getaway for you.

Newly-restored buildings in Cozumel, Mexico.
Photo © Aaron Saunders

Departing Saturday, January 8, 2011 aboard Norwegian Sun, your sun-washed five-night voyage takes you from the beautiful Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and sails to Cozumel and Key West, book-ended with two sea days.

 Key West, Florida.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

While Cozumel is indeed the staple of the Western Caribbean itinerary, the beautiful and welcoming port of Key West is something of an oddity, only appearing on a handful of Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries - usually on shorter voyages, no less.  The inclusion of two sea days helps ensure guests receive the maximum level of exploration and relaxation.

The multi-story atrium aboard Norwegian Sun,

as seen during the evening.

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

Built in 2001, the 2,002-passenger Norwegian Sun was one of the first ships to be designed with NCL's now-famous "Freestyle Cruising."  While the product may have changed and evolved over the intervening years, the ship is immensely comfortable to sail on, and offers virtually the same amenities as her newer fleet-mates.  We still look fondly on a 2005 trip to Alaska aboard her; indeed, fans of the "Old NCL" will find much to like in this classy, elegant vessel: she's a decided throwback to a more...demur Norwegian Cruise Line.

Perhaps best of all: pricing for this voyage starts at a jaw-dropping $264 per person.  So stop reading this and head on over to NCL's site to get your much-needed dose of vitamin 'Cruise.'